New 365bhp Leon Cupra R ST is fastest-ever Seat

Matt Allan

Seat has announced the launch of its fastest-ever model – a limited edition, specially tuned version of the Leon Cupra.

A limited run of 150 Leon Cupra R ST models will be brought to the UK this year, priced at £37,975.

Sitting at the very top of the Leon heap, the special edition cars come as standard with a 296bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine but for a £500 premium buyers will be able to unlock an extra 69bhp.

Using an optional ABT tuning pack, Seat will alter the engine’s mapping to give the Cupra R ST 265bhp, bringing its 0-62mph time down by 0.4 seconds to just 4.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

The even better news for buyers is that the package is insurance rated, doesn’t affected the car’s homologation status and won’t harm the manufacturer’s warranty.

The Leon Cupra R ST puts its substantial power – the most eked out of the 2.0-litre engine by any VW Group car – down through a seven-speed DSG gearbox and all-wheel-drive system. It is fitted with specially tune adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes to keep everything pointing the right way.

The Leon Cupra R ST is still a Seat, not to be confused with models from the Spanish firm’s spin-off Cupra, which is officially a standalone brand, but it does feature a host of Cupra-specific features.

Copper accents on everything from the wheel hubs to the cabin air vents and seat stitching emphasise the car’s status as a Cupra performance model and there’s generous use of carbon fibre on the front splitter, new rear spoiler, the side skirts and rear diffuser.